Inter Miami's Lionel Messi scored a superb free-kick in the 33rd minute to silence the Columbus home crowd, but it proved to be in vain as Columbus Crew dug deep to frustrate Miami for long periods. Josef Martinez had fired Crew ahead from the penalty spot five minutes earlier. Messi's 21st goal of the regular season came after Malte Amundsen of Columbus Crew challenged him during the match.
Messi almost put Miami ahead in the 62nd minute when he burst forward and shot at goal, only to see his effort tipped over by Crew goalkeeper Patrick Schulte. Miami thought they had taken the lead moments later when substitute David Ayala darted clear of the Columbus back four and crashed a shot past Schulte at the near post. However, the goal was chalked off after Ayala was ruled fractionally offside.
Columbus looked lively at the other end, with new Moroccan signing Anass Zaroury twice hitting the woodwork, including with one spectacular long-range effort that cannoned off the underside of the bar. The game looked to be heading for a draw, but deep into stoppage time, Columbus grabbed a winner through Senegalese substitute Jamal Thiare.
Brais Mendez unleashed a curling shot from the edge of the area which Miami goalkeeper Rocco Rios Novo failed to secure, allowing Thiare to react quickest and lash home the close-range finish to secure all three points for Columbus. The defeat dealt another blow to Miami's already faint hopes of catching Nashville at the top of the Eastern Conference.
Miami now trail leaders Nashville by 14 points with seven games of the regular season remaining. Columbus, meanwhile, remain in the hunt for a playoff place, and are in 12th spot on 29 points - four points outside the postseason places. The result was a costly one for Miami, who are struggling to keep pace with Nashville.
The match was a closely contested affair, with both teams creating chances throughout. However, it was Columbus who ultimately made the most of their opportunities, securing a crucial win in their pursuit of a playoff spot. Miami, on the other hand, will look to regroup and bounce back from the defeat.
The loss was a disappointing one for Miami, who had been hoping to keep their playoff hopes alive. Despite Messi's impressive goal, the team was unable to secure the win, and will now look to their remaining games to try and salvage their season. Columbus, meanwhile, will look to build on their momentum and push for a postseason spot.
Key points
- Lionel Messi scored his 21st goal of the regular season but Inter Miami suffered a 2-1 defeat to Columbus Crew.
- Columbus Crew's win keeps them in the hunt for a playoff place, while Miami's hopes of catching Nashville are dwindling.
- The defeat leaves Miami 14 points behind leaders Nashville with seven games of the regular season remaining.
